Bridgewater Vestal's Podcast: Recent Episodes
Bridgewater Church
The work of Christ and our secured future inheritance changes everything for God’s people - even when they are walking through difficulty.
Text: 1 Peter 1:1-12
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Money makes a terrible master. Jesus is clear: we cannot serve both God and money. Generosity is one practical way we fight for wholehearted devotion and keep God first.
Text: Matthew 6:24, 33; 1Timothy 6:6-10,17-19
Speaker: Aaron Patton
What we treasure reveals what we value—but giving also has the power to redirect our affections. Where our money goes, our heart often follows.
Text: Matthew 6:21–23; Proverbs 3:9-10; Deuteronomy 14:22-23
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Jesus calls us to store up treasure in heaven, reminding us that this world is not our home. Generosity helps loosen our grip on temporary things and strengthens our investment in what lasts forever.
Text: Matthew 6:19-20; Philippians 3:17-20; Luke 12:13-21
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Morality - How do I know what is true/right or wrong?
Text: Romans 1:18-21; Psalm 19:7-14
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Purpose - What if it's not something that's found, but given?
Text: Ecclesiastes 1:12-14, 16-17; 2:1-11; Philippians 1:20-27
Speaker: Aaron Patton
All of us have a lens through which we view the world and determine what we think and how we act. One of the most influential is the lens of “Origin”. How did I get here? How you answer this question may just impact more than you realize.
Text: Gen 2:5-25
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Ruth’s journey culminates in redemption—This message reminds us that even in the midst of hardship, God's faithfulness is writing a greater story, and our faithfulness in the ordinary matters in His redemptive work.
Text: Ruth 4:1-22
Speaker: Dan Snyder
Here in chapter 3, we see courage, trust, and wise action intersect as Ruth takes a bold step on an uncertain path that sets the stage for God’s provision.
Text: Ruth 3:1-18
Speaker: Aaron Patton
After Naomi’s bitterness in chapter 1, Ruth shows us a different way forward—faithful, hopeful, and obedient.
Text: Ruth 2:1-23
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Through the struggles, setbacks, and unexpected twists of life, God is quietly at work, preparing redemption and hope. This message encourages moms—and all of us—to trust God’s provision even in the midst of life’s ups and downs.
Text: Ruth 1:1-22
Speaker: Aaron Patton
This week, we look into the life of James, the Half brother of Jesus. He was not heard from until AFTER the resurrection, then he became a leader along with Peter of the Jerusalem church at the time of Pentecost, the persecution of the Saints, and the subsequent scattering of the saints abroad.
James 1:1-7
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Why does God allow suffering? Why do we experience pain? This week we will be looking at 2 Corinthians 12 and the life of Paul to answer why God allowed suffering in Paul's life.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
God has designed comfort to not only be something that is received, but also passed on.
Text: 2 Corinthians 1:3-7
Speaker: Dallas Seamans
Don't interpret God's silence as Him being absent, apathetic, or angry. This is the story of John the Baptist doubting that Jesus was Who He said He was.
Text: Matthew 4:12-13, 11:1-6
Speaker: Aaron Patton
No one expected Jesus to conquer death, and if He did, we need to consider that He is Who He says He is. According to Luke, Jesus is the King who came, not to get what He wanted, but to give what we needed!
Text: Luke 24:1-12, 37-48
Speaker: Aaron Patton
The end of the story explains why the rest of the story of the life of Jesus needed to be written down. It also explains what Christ came to accomplish. Which kind of follower are you?
Text: Luke 9:21-25; 23:33-37, 39, 44-49
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Being right doesn’t give us the right to be self righteous.
Text: Luke 15
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Love for God is demonstrated by love for others. If love for others isn’t clearly evident - what does that mean?
Text: Luke 10:25-37
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Jesus didn’t invite people into a religion. He invited them to obedience. Whatever your next step is take it. You don’t know what hangs in the balance.
Text: Luke 4:14-15, 38-40, 42-44; 1 Peter 2:23-24
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Before we dig into the life and teaching of Jesus, it’s important to understand what Christianity is really all about. Did Jesus come to provide something for us? Yes! But, what if we’re not supposed to be consumers, but in fact, contributors?!
Text: Luke 3:1-20
Speaker: Aaron Patton
When Luke was writing, he wasn’t writing the Bible, he was giving eyewitness testimony. The question is…was it reliable?
Text: Luke 1:1-4
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Reaching into new neighborhoods, cities and regions with the good news is something that must be a priority. It can’t wait.
Text: Romans 15:20-22
Speaker: Aaron Patton
God is writing a bigger story than we can see. Even when evil seems to win, God’s power turns the impossible around for His people and His purposes.
Text: Esther 7-10
Speaker: Aaron Patton
God’s plan is often invisible until the right moment; patience and wisdom matter.
Text: Esther 5-6
Speaker: Joel Garrison
God calls us to step up when He places us in a position to make a difference.
Text: Esther 4
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Life is hard when you’re not in control — but hope begins when you trust the One who is.
Text: Esther 3
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Life is hard when fear holds you back, but courage begins when you trust that God is still at work.
Text: Esther 2
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Life can feel unfair and out of our control, but God is still sovereign.
Text: Esther 1
Speaker: Aaron Patton
When Joseph first heard that his fiancee was pregnant, he graciously decided to quietly break the engagement. Then an angel showed up! As the angel described to Joseph what God was doing and what God wanted from Him, Joseph had a decision to make. Would he go the way that seemingly made sense and everyone else would have gone? Or would his trade his plan for another? What if trading your plan for God’s plan is what Christmas is all about?
Text: Matthew 1:18-25
Speaker: Aaron Patton
When the wise men from eastern lands studied the stars and realized that something new and incredible was happening in the west, they followed the star and came to celebrate what it meant. Not everyone had the same reaction to the birth of Jesus. What is your reaction to the birth of Jesus? Will you give your life to worship Him or worship your life by living for yourself?
Text: Matthew 2:1-18
Speaker: Aaron Patton
When a priest named Zechariah received word that he and his wife would have a baby in their very old age, he simply couldn’t believe it. Despite his unbelief, God had a plan for that child to prepare the way for Jesus and declare that He is the Lamb of God who takes away our sin. When we look at Christmas, we are faced with the same question that Zechariah wrestled with: will we believe what God says is true?
Text: Luke 1:5-25; 39-45; 67-80
Speaker: Aaron Patton
When the nation of Israel was at its darkest time, the Lord made a promise of deliverance and salvation through a child yet to be born. Christmas isn't just about a birth, it's about hope through a promise kept. Now that Jesus is here, will we run to Him? Trust Him? Hope in Him? Or will we stay in darkness, ignoring the lightGod has provided? Will you live with hope, or keep living like this is all there is?
Text: Isaiah 8:20-9:7; Matthew 4:15-16; Luke 1:79
Speaker: Aaron Patton
The church in Ephesus started well, but just starting well is not what matters. In this message, we'll look at how to not just start well but most importantly to finish well.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Passage: Revelation 2:1-7
Ever had one of those days where you thought you were fine—then somebody cut you off in traffic or your kid asked the wrong question at the wrong time—and suddenly something really ugly just…erupted?Today we'll look at King Solomon's practical advice on how to deal with this.
Text: Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 15:11, 17-20
Speaker: Dallas Seamans
Everyone knows that money can bring significant struggles. If we lack - we struggle. It’s also possible to struggle even when you have enough. Jesus warns us to build in guardrails when it comes to money - because greed and a lack of contentment will destroy you.
Text: Luke 12:13-34
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Wise people understand that the longer you flirt with something, the more apt you are to fall prey to it. What if there were a different way? Could you flee some of the things that aren’t good for you?
Text: 2 Timothy 2:15-26
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Wise people put boundaries in place - they don’t act like they couldn’t possibly fail. What if there was a guide who could help you establish boundaries that would keep you safe? Would you want that?
Text: Ephesians 5:15-18
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Sometimes when you dig into the Bible, you find more questions than answers. That’s ok. Questions can help us draw closer to God. As we dig deeper, we will share some study tips and helpful questions to ask so that you can get the answers you need in order to grow.
Text: James 4
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Let’s be honest - the Bible isn’t always easy to understand. But when you know how to read it and understand it, it transforms your life. So what do you need to know, have and do as you begin to study the Bible? That’s what we’re going to answer today.
Text: James 3
Speaker: Aaron Patton
God calls husbands to love their wives not casually, but sacrificially—just as Christ loved the church. In this passage, Paul lays out a radical vision of leadership rooted in humility, service, and deep commitment. This message will challenge men to step up, lay down their pride, and lead with a love that reflects the heart of Jesus.
Text: Ephesians 5:25-33
Speaker: Bob Kadlecik
In a world full of conflicting voices about womanhood and marriage, God offers a beautiful and countercultural design. Paul reveals the role of the wife—not as lesser, but as a powerful partner who reflects Christlike humility and strength through submission. This message unpacks what biblical submission really means and how it leads to unity, trust, and flourishing in marriage.
Text: Ephesians 5:22-24
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In a culture that normalizes sexual immorality, God calls us to walk in the light and live differently. Paul contrasts the purity of God's love with the destructive pull of lust, impurity, and greed. This message will challenge you to reject darkness, embrace your identity in Christ, and pursue a life that reflects His holiness.
Text: Ephesians 5:1-9
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Healthy families are built on healthy communication, but that doesn’t come naturally. In Ephesians, Paul gives us clear, practical rules for how to speak the truth, handle anger, and build others up with our words. This message will help you break toxic patterns and replace them with grace-filled communication that strengthens your relationships.
Text: Ephesians 4:25-32
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In Minecraft, a strong base keeps you safe from mobs and disasters. Yes, even in Minecraft, your home can be destroyed by fire, explosions, floods and more. In life, building on the rock (Jesus) gives you stability in every storm.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
We weren’t created to do life alone. In the final week of What Matters Most, we’re exploring the truth that life is better connected. Meaningful relationships are where spiritual growth thrives—where we’re challenged, encouraged, held accountable, and cared for through life’s ups and downs.
Text: Ecclesiastes 4:7-12; Acts 2:42-47
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Love isn’t just a feeling—it’s action. And the clearest expression of love is service. In week four of What Matters Most, we’re looking to Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve. His selfless love is our model and our calling. Because when we truly grasp how deeply Jesus has served and saved us, we can’t help but serve others.
Text: Matthew 5:43-48; John 13:1-17
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Giving isn’t really about money—it’s about trust. In week three of What Matters Most, we’ll unpack the truth that you can’t outgive God, not because He needs what we have, but because He’s after our hearts. When we trust God with our resources, we declare our faith in His provision and prioritize His Kingdom.
Text: 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
Speaker: Aaron Patton
God’s heart beats for people—every person, everywhere. In week two of What Matters Most, we’ll explore the truth that found people find people. Because if people matter most to God, they must matter most to us.
Text: Jonah 4
Speaker: Aaron Patton
God isn’t finished with you. No matter who you are, where you’ve been, or how long you’ve followed Jesus—there’s always a next step. This week we’re focusing on progress, not perfection.
Text: 2 Peter 1:5-11
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Every day, Christians face a real spiritual battle, but too often we walk in unprepared—like a superhero stepping into war without their armor. God has given us everything we need to stand strong, but we have to choose to suit up with His armor.
Text: Ephesians 6:10-20
Guest Speaker: Joel Garrison
In this sermon we’ll explore Ephesians 4 and discover what it means to say no to our old life and yes to the new nature God has created us for—righteousness and holiness. Like a baseball bat or a guitar designed for a purpose, we too are created to live intentionally, reflecting Christ’s character in our actions and attitudes.
Text: Ephesians 4:17-24
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Have you ever been given a title or calling that felt bigger than who you are? This message explores the tension between our current reality and the greater purpose God has for us. Discover how to step confidently into the calling God has placed on your life, even when you don’t yet feel ready.
Text: Ephesians 4:1-13
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In Ephesians 3, we see that God's plan has always been to offer salvation to everyone — both Jews and Gentiles — through Christ. Paul reminds us that sharing the gospel is a privilege, and that we can approach God boldly for the strength to do so. We’re called to trust in God’s greater plan and be rooted in His deep, unshakable love.
Text: Ephesians 3:1-21
Speaker: Dallas Seamans
In this message, we explore what it truly means to be God’s masterpiece, as described in Ephesians 2:1-10. We confront the tension between what God says about us and how we often feel — broken, unfinished, and not enough. Through Paul’s words, we discover our new position in Christ, the foundation of grace we stand on, and the purpose we were created for.
Text: Ephesians 2:1-10
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In this message kicking off our series in Ephesians, we explore the question: Who are you, really? Drawing from Ephesians 1, we uncover how our identity isn’t found in appearance, performance, or approval—but in Jesus.
Text: Ephesians 1:1-23
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Lament is ultimately a journey that leads to trust. Even when we do not yet see the answers, we choose to believe in God's goodness and steadfast love.
Text: Psalm 13
Speaker: Joel Garrison
Lament is not just about expressing sorrow; it also involves boldly asking God to intervene.
Text: Psalm 22
Speaker: Dallas Seamans
God invites us to bring our complaints before Him—not in a spirit of rebellion but in faith. The psalmist shows us how lament is not about grumbling but about bringing our pain to the only One who can truly act.
Text: Psalm 10
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In times of suffering and hardship, our first response should be to turn to God in prayer. Psalm 77 guides us in how to bring our pain, questions, and struggles before the Lord.
Text: Psalm 77
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Does science disprove the Bible or does it actually complement it? Does being a Christian require that we stop thinking? What do we do when the Bible and scientific theory don’t seem to match up?
Text: Romans 1:19-23
Speaker: Aaron Patton
One of the biggest objections to Christianity is the hypocrisy that shows up often amongst people who claim to be Christians. If you’ve ever been let down by Christians, it’s easy to consider walking away from the Church. What do we do when Christians let us down?
Text: Matthew 23:27-28, 33; Titus 1:16; Hebrews 5:13-14; 1 John 1:8-10, 2:1-2
Speaker: Aaron Patton
If people really knew me, I doubt they would want anything to do with me. Actually, if God knows, I doubt He’ll really accept me. What do I do if I feel like I’m not enough?
Text: Romans 3:9-26; Luke 7:36-50
Speaker: Aaron Patton
After the Resurrection, Jesus appeared to several of the disciples. In fact there are 13 post-resurrection appearances of Jesus in the N.T. When the disciples told Thomas about seeing Jesus, his response was “Unless I see the nail wounds and put my fingers into them, I won’t believe.” Thomas has unfortunately been given a bad rap, but in reality, most of us have similar questions and doubts.
Text: John 20:19-30; Matt 28:16-20
Speaker: Aaron Patton
This week we close out our series by looking at some very practical steps that we can take beyond our words in order to demonstrate meekness and gentleness.
Text: James 1:19-27; Matthew 6:14-15
Speaker: Aaron Patton
We live in a very tribalistic society that has created an “Us vs. Them” approach to life. If someone doesn’t agree with you - they are them. When we choose gentleness, we create room for reconciliation and restoration in our relationships. Maybe we can break the cycle of “Us vs. Them”.
Text: 2 Timothy 2:14-15, 22-26
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Jesus embodied Gentleness over and over, including with people who opposed Him. We have the opportunity to follow His example and reflect this gentleness in our own lives, especially as we face contentious situations.
Text: John 8:1-11; Luke 23:32-36; Matthew 26:50-54; Matthew 5: 38-39
Speaker: Tim Sullivan
Gentleness is not weakness. In fact, gentleness is a powerful, Christ-like response that disarms hostility and helps to build better relationships. What if we didn’t have to respond to opposition with aggression and defensiveness?
Text: Proverbs 15:1, 4; 19:11, 18; 29:11; 14:1, 3
Speaker: Aaron Patton
God actively calls his people to holy living - no matter where or when they live. When we only obey partially, it results in full disobedience. However, if we will obey the Lord and follow Him, he promises to bring blessings.
Text: Haggai 2:10-24
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Have you ever been discouraged? Ever felt like everything you’re doing isn’t amounting to anything compared to others? When we give God the priority in our lives, he demonstrates that we can resist discouragement and trust that His work is bigger, greater, and more long-term than we can currently see.
Text: Haggai 2:1-9
Speaker: Tim Sullivan
The Israelite people had been through a lot! Years of captivity under the Babylonian and Media/Persian empires had cost them dearly. When they were finally released to return home and restore things, the daily challenges that they faced surely caused them to reorient their priorities. Sadly, the new priorities led to some major problems. What happens when God’s people shift their priorities from God’s instructions to their own comforts? Haggai 1 shows us and calls us to examine our priorities and act promptly on what God has commanded.
Text: Haggai 1
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In the chaos of our urban, digital age, it’s easier than ever to “gain the whole world and yet lose your soul.” But how can we have a relationship with a God we cannot see? The answer lies in intentionally setting aside time to be alone with God. Silence and solitude allow us to break free from the noise and distractions of everyday life, enabling us to be fully present in the presence of God.
Text: Luke 5:15-16
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Fasting is often misunderstood and underutilized in today's indulgent culture, despite being a vital practice in the teachings of Jesus. If we desire a genuine relationship with God, we must engage in fasting. In a society characterized by excess and indulgence, many have become enslaved to their bodily desires. Fasting provides a path to regain control over those desires and achieve mastery over ourselves.
Text: Matthew 6:16-18
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Jesus says, come to me. Get away with me, and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. If you want to have a relationship with a God you can’t see, you will have to slow down and sabbath. If you don’t take the Sabbath, the Sabbath will take you.
Text: Matthew 11:28-12:1; Genesis 2:1-3; Exodus 20:8-11
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Following Jesus involves more than just attending church or believing the right things; it requires practicing a Way of life. To build a relationship with a God we cannot see, we need to invest time in following Jesus and reading Scripture. Our posture while engaging with the Bible is more important than just the technique we use. It’s less about information and more about transformation. When read with the right heart posture, that of openness and yieldedness to God, Scripture becomes one of the primary means by which the Spirit of Jesus forms us into the people we were always meant to be.
Passage: Mark 1:16-20; 2:13-14; 3:13-19; 8:34-37; Matthew 5:17-19
Speaker: Aaron Patton
If you’re not dead, you’re not done—God has more for you. You can overcome challenges, pursue your goals, and live a remarkable life that honors God. You’ve just got to keep moving forward, one step at a time. When you feel tired or discouraged, you need to remember Who you’re running for and take the next step. You don’t have to finish the race all at once; you only need to take the next step. Our ultimate example and source of motivation to keep going is Jesus, who fixed His eyes on us. Now, we fix our eyes on Him.
Passage: Hebrews 12:1-3; John 19:28-30
Speaker: Aaron Patton
The Bible makes it clear that Satan is a spiritual enemy intent on destroying us. His methods often involve disguising harmful temptations as things that feel appealing or right. Relying solely on willpower to resist temptation can only take you so far. However, God offers a more effective approach: pre-deciding. Instead of struggling to resist temptation when it arises, you can take steps today to eliminate its power over you. Learn how God equips us to say no to sin in advance, trusting that His way is not only right but also the most fulfilling path for our lives.
Passage: Genesis 39:1-12; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15-16
Speaker: Dallas Seamans
Consistency is the key to lasting change and spiritual growth. While many struggle with inconsistency in various aspects of life, the writers of Scripture highlight examples like Daniel, whose unwavering devotion to God demonstrated the power of steady habits. By starting with a compelling “why,” planning for imperfection, embracing the process, and leaning on God and a supportive community, we can develop the consistency needed to honor God and experience transformation in our lives.
Passage: Romans 7:15; Daniel 6:1-4, 10, 23
Speaker: Aaron Patton
What happens between our good intentions and our choices at the moment? If only we could make decisions ahead of time rather than when we’re stressed, overwhelmed, or swayed by fear or emotion. This teaching series teaches us how to do just that and live the life God wants for us. The quality of our lives depends on the quality of our decisions, which can be weakened by decision fatigue and emotional impulses. So we’re going to explore the concept of “pre-deciding,” a proactive approach rooted in Jesus’ teaching to prioritize God above all else. By establishing intentional practices and strategies, we can remain devoted to Him, reduce distractions, and align our lives with our faith and values.
Matthew 6:33
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Over the past weeks, we’ve explored stories about God’s power and asked if He still works in the same way today. The Christmas story, especially the miraculous conception of Jesus, shows that God is still in the business of doing the impossible and keeping His promises. Just as God chose Mary, an ordinary young woman, to bring His Son into the world, He continues to pay attention to those others overlook and offers grace, mercy, and help when we believe, even in situations that seem impossible.
Luke 1
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In this message, we explore how David, despite being wronged by King Saul, chooses integrity over vengeance when given the chance to kill Saul in a vulnerable moment. Instead of seizing power by taking matters into his own hands, David trusts God's plan and refrains from harming Saul, even though it seems like a perfect opportunity. The message emphasizes that in life's random or challenging moments, choosing integrity and trusting God's plan shapes the story of our lives in ways that honor Him and lead to growth.
Passage: 1 Samuel 24
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In Exodus 14, the Israelites find themselves trapped between the Red Sea and Pharaoh's advancing army, leading to fear and panic. Moses reassures them that God will fight for and deliver them, instructing them to "be still" and trust in God's plan. Despite their doubts, God parts the Red Sea, allowing the Israelites to escape, and then destroys Pharaoh's army, demonstrating His power and faithfulness to deliver His people in times of chaos.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
The Bible portrays God in remarkable and awe-inspiring ways. Its pages are filled with powerful stories that can inspire us, but they can also leave us questioning whether God still moves in the same mighty ways today. This series is meant to explore who God is and what we can expect from Him, reminding us that He is the SAME GOD—unchanging and just as powerful as ever Despite how people and circumstances change over time, God remains the same, always faithful to His promises. By examining the stories of Abraham, Isaac & Jacob, we are reminded that God is a promise-maker and promise-keeper, and we are encouraged to trust Him and obey, knowing that He provides and fulfills His word.
Passage: Genesis 12, 18 & 22
Speaker: Aaron Patton
This year at Bridgewater Church, we’ve witnessed God’s incredible work, both in individual lives and our collective church community, as we pursued our mission to make more and better disciples of Jesus. From chasing our goals for faith commitments, baptisms, and attendance to launching new campuses and seeing remarkable generosity, we have much to celebrate. And we’ve got a story to tell!
Passage: Psalm 145
Speaker: Aaron Patton
“Perseverance—God does His best work over time as you stick with it.”
Passage: 2 Timothy 4: 1-8
Speaker: Bob Kadlecik
“Growing up in church while living for yourself.”
Passage: Matthew 5:6; Ecclesiastes 12; 1 Timothy 4:12
Speaker: Kurt Goglin
Every single person has a story—a path that they traveled to arrive where they currently are! The same is true of every follower of Jesus. Some stories are filled with twists and turns, some are more straightforward. Each story is powerful and teaches us something about God. The question is—What is your story?
“The power of a boring story.”
Luke 15
Speaker: Kevin Stiles
When you drive a vehicle, where you look determines where you go. The same is true for life. This raises a big question—What has your attention? Maybe it’s time to build some guardrails into your life to keep you from going where you don’t want to go!
Proverbs 7
Speaker: Aaron Patton
If you grew up in an age before the internet, you remember a time when maps were a thing. The map would chart out the way to get where you were going. Someone did the work to figure out how to get from A to B. But here’s the thing—the map was only as helpful and reliable as the maker of the map. The same is true in life. We ask all sorts of people for advice, but the answers you get are only as trustworthy as the people you choose to trust.
1 Kings 12
Speaker: Aaron Patton
We are pretty good at getting ourselves into trouble. And once we are in trouble, it’s a little hard to change the situation. But what if we could learn to look down the path first? Wouldn’t that be a helpful tool?
Proverbs 27:12
Speaker: Joel Garrison
Life is filled with all sorts of twists, turns, and construction zones—similar to the open road! When you get in your car, you know exactly how to navigate from point A to point B, but how do you do that in life? How do you avoid crashing? How do you make sure you end up where you want to end up without doing major damage to yourself and others? If we stop and Ask For Directions, maybe we can get there quicker and safer!
Have you ever noticed something going on in someone else’s life and thought to yourself, “That’s not going to end well!”? Just about all of us have the ability to see that in other people, but amazingly we often times can’t seem to see when we are personally heading toward a crash! What if there were a way to get some directions that would help us avoid crashing all together?
Matthew 7:24-29
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Everyone knows what a car does. But what does a church do? Like cars, Christians are made to move—to follow and become more like Jesus and help others follow Him too. In Acts 8 we find that the people God calls us to go to may not be the ones we expect.
Acts 8
Speaker: Aaron Patton
If you don’t expect people to give their lives to Jesus, why talk to them about Jesus? If you don’t expect God to move, why pray? Peter and John lived in expectation and courage. God is changing lives! Put your foot on the accelerator that motivated the first church – live in expectation and courage.
Acts 3-4
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Even the most perfectly balanced engine won’t do anything without fuel. What is the fuel of a revival? It is the obedience of a Christian in several key areas.
Acts 2
Speaker: Dallas Seamans
The movement of the pistons is what gives an engine its power. The movement and secret to the power and exponential growth of the church is something the apostle Peter called “the gospel.” What is the gospel? It means “good news” but it starts with really bad news: the murder of the Lord Jesus. But God raised Jesus from the dead and if you repent you can be forgiven through Him.
Acts 2
Speaker: Aaron Patton
A church or a Christian can look impressive, but without the Holy Spirit they will never do anything except sit and rust. The sparkplug creates the fire that starts the engine. What is the “spark” that all of us need in our church and life?
Acts 2
Speaker: Aaron Patton
When most people think about change, they think about surface issues. Most New Year’s resolutions are about fitness or finance. I want to lose weight, eat better, exercise, and save money – exterior things. If life were a car, we’d spend all our time on the paint job. We can even parent this way – focusing only on the outward behavior of our kids. But God wants change to go deeper. Let’s go “under the hood” and examine the first Christians to learn how God can really change us, not just on the outside but on the inside as well.
When a car sits, the tires warp and go flat. The battery dies, the breaks rust, the fuel pump breaks down and animals move in. Cars are made to move. As we go “under the hood” in Acts to look at the early church we find the same thing. Christians aren’t just saved to believe something; we are created to do something. Move! What is God calling you to do?
Acts 1
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In the book of 3rd John, John calls out a man named Diotrephes, the leader of a house Church, for acting like a jerk. Diotrephes is a consumer, and life has become all about him. How do we stop being consumers and start being contributors when it comes to our walk with Jesus?
3 John 1-15
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Thoreau said: “Rather than love, money or fame – give me truth.” It sounds quite noble. Many today feel the opposite: “I’d rather be accused of being too loving than being too truthful.” But what if both are wrong? That’s what 2 John is about – not balancing truth and love but putting them together.
2 John 1-11
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Remember the days of recording over cassettes or burning CDs? Having a mixtape was the perfect way to have all of your favorite songs in the same place. For the next three Sundays, we’re splicing together three short, all-time great letters in the New Testament that are just as relevant & needed today as when they were first cut.
Jude, the brother of Jesus, points out in his book that we become like whoever we listen to the most. Listening to the bad advice that is everywhere today leads to bad beliefs. And our bad beliefs always result in bad behavior. In fact, while many deny it, your behavior is the best indicator of what you really believe.
Jude 1:3-25
Speaker: Aaron Patton
There are two things you are never supposed to talk about in “polite” company: politics and religion. Many believe there should be a wall between them. "Jesus, stay out of my politics!" It’s better that way... or is it? What if we opened the door and asked God into our politics?
Romans 13:1-7
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Food is a significant part of our lives! It is such a regular part of our daily lives that it is very easy to give lots of thought or very little thought to our food habits. Regardless of which camp you might be in—food is important, but your heart is more important!
Matthew 15:8-11
Speaker: Aaron Patton
For many, money is the most private and personal area of our life. We are willing to proclaim who we voted for, what we ate last night and our favorite entertainment. But my money is my business—stay out! But is it just my business? Are you willing to let Jesus into this bolted-shut room of your life?
Proverbs 6:6-11
Speaker: Aaron Patton
We have already seen how God, the shepherd, is out front leading and how He comes alongside to provide and protect. Now we get a shepherd who is following. To be in His flock is to hear footsteps behind you, but not the footsteps of disappointment, anger, or judgment. These are the footsteps of goodness and love. This sermon reveals God’s heart for His people, and His desire to give us abundant life.
Psalm 23:6
Speaker: Dan Snyder
We could not possibly account or prepare for every danger we will face in our lives. Life is mysteriously unpredictable. Yet this psalm teaches us that God, our shepherd, has already gone before us and both accounted and prepared for each danger. He leads us on in safety, providing for us and protecting us even when we’re not aware that He’s doing so. This sermon confronts us with our great need for God’s provision and protection.
Psalm 23:5
Speaker: Josh Jones
Life has a way of leaving us feeling defeated, hopeless, and unsure of where to turn. While sometimes other people are the cause, other times it is because of our own choices. And how does God respond to us when we’re down? This sermon highlights how God rescues, restores, and leads us in the right direction.
Psalm 23:3-4
Speaker: Aaron Patton
No portion of Scripture, Old or New Testament, is so universally celebrated by those who are followers of Jesus and those who aren’t than Psalm 23. Many people who are unfamiliar with the Bible are familiar with Psalm 23. While there may be some who understand and appreciate its meaning and significance, there are likely far more who find some level of comfort in it, but fall short of understanding what it’s saying and experiencing what it offers. In this 4-week series, we’ll unpack some of the beauty and meaning of this beloved psalm and see how God cares for His people through deserts and gardens—and everywhere in between.
Metaphors can be powerful figures of speech, helping us to understand what would otherwise be unclear to us. In the opening lines of Psalm 23, the author refers to God as a shepherd and himself as a sheep. He goes on to say that because that is true, he has need of nothing. How can he say that, and how can I experience that? This sermon answers those questions.
Psalm 23:1-2
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Motherhood is challenging. When life and motherhood aren't what you had wanted, planned, or anticipated, it’s easy to wonder where God is in all of it. From the anticipation of it through all the seasons of it, it tests every woman every step of the way. Sometimes the challenges are the result of our own choices, while at other times they result from the choices of others. There are moments so difficult we may wonder if God knows about our situation and, if He does, if He cares at all. In this sermon, we’re going to get a look into the lives of two women in the Bible whose experience of motherhood was far from ideal, and we’ll see where God is in their stories and what He has planned for them.
Genesis 16:1-16
Speaker: Aaron Patton
The capacity for addiction can be found inside all of us. In fact, the addict experience could actually be called the human experience. Why do we do the things that we don’t want to and why do we want the things that we do? These questions and more, when brought into the light and laid at the feet of God, can help us find freedom from the addictions that rule over so many of us!
John 8:31-36
Speaker: Aaron Patton
There are two paths to take in this life. You can’t have both. There’s the Easy Button and there’s the Greatness Button. Guess which one Jesus pushed? This gets at a fundamental difference in our desires and God’s desires for us. My goal for my life is happiness and comfort. God’s goal for my life is greatness—to become god-like (more like Jesus).
Matthew 16:21-17
Speaker: Dan Snyder
One of the greatest giants that we ever struggle with is a giant in our head! Insecurity, low self-worth, and even self-hate all show up because of rejection or feelings of rejection from the events in our lives. What if we could drop that giant? What if we could be secure in who we are and how we are valued?
1 Samuel 17
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Everyone experiences fear and worry and sometimes fear can leave us frozen—unable to think clearly or respond effectively. But, is that are only response? Mark 6 gives us hope for when we face fear and worry.
Mark 6:45-52
Speaker: Aaron Patton
We all have habits, patterns and sins that have a way of consuming our lives. These ‘giants’ like fear, rejection, comfort and addiction can wreak havoc in our lives. In this series we look at what God’s Word says to discover that whatever your affliction is, it can, will, and must fall to the power of Jesus.
Israel learns that there are still Giants in the land; some are right in your face, yelling at you, and others are more subtle. Some "giants" leave us trembling and hold us back. These "giants" are keeping you on the sideline, so what do you do? You change your perspective, but how do we do that?
1 Samuel 17
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Jesus came to cancel the things that hold you prisoner!
Luke 4:18-19
Speaker: Aaron Patton
When we understand all that we have been forgiven of, it compels us to forgive others. We have wronged God far more than anyone has ever wronged us, and yet He canceled our debt. Forgiveness cannot stop with us, it must flow through us.
Matthew 18:21-35
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Everyone wants peace. But how do we get there? Our sin nature wants to lean into revenge and getting even, but peace is actually found in forgiveness. How do we become healed and whole after being wronged? The only path is forgiveness. It’s not that we become healed and then forgive, we have to forgive to heal.
Colossians 3:12-15
Speaker: Josh Edwards
When you have been hurt deeply, forgiveness can feel like an impossible task. What is the big deal with forgiveness? Does God really expect me to forgive THAT person? How on earth am I supposed to forgive those who have wronged me? Join us as we look at some common misconceptions about forgiveness, how forgiveness leads to peace, and how being forgiven compels us to forgive others.
The Bible commands us to forgive. But so much has been assumed about what it means to forgive that we want to take the time to talk about what forgiveness is—and what it is not. In doing so, we will find that Biblical forgiveness may not be what we thought, but it is so much better.
Colossians 3:12-13
Speaker: Aaron Patton
What about when we can’t honor someone? What about abuse? Today we are joining the conversation about God’s heart for the abused and will unpack four responses to the problem of abuse.
Luke 4:16-19
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Marriages often don’t fall apart in a single day. They also don’t get fixed in a single day. Both healthy and hurting marriages are the product of small choices over time. The “little things” can make a big difference.
Song of Songs 2:15
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In the heat of the battle, reacting, instead of carefully responding is very easy to do. However, if we are going to honor one another above ourselves, we are going to have to learn to listen to one another and resolve conflict with good rather than evil. What might happen in our relationships if we listened to God’s instructions instead of our feelings?
Romans 12:14-21
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Let’s stop pretending. The longer you are in relationships the harder it is to pretend or fake loving someone. Eventually the real you comes out. We need to stop pretending and genuinely love others.
Where do we begin when it comes to relationships? There is ONE thing that all good relationships have in common. Whether it be a husband and wife, two people dating, parents and kids, employer or employee or best friends there is ONE thing that every good relationship has in common.
Romans 12:9-10
Speaker: Aaron Patton
We’re talking about vision. A vision for the people in your life who don’t know Jesus to become followers of Jesus. A vision for those in your workplace to lean in to hear what you have to say because you live out your faith in such a winsome and attractive way. A vision to have a vibrant, growing, community of faith in communities where it’s lacking. A vision to creatively participate in what God is doing in the world. A vision to ask and expect big things of God while we innovate and take risks. A vision to see exponentially more people jumping in to become a part of what God is doing among us by serving, giving, praying, investing, and inviting.
Matthew 25:29
Speaker: Josh Jones & Aaron Patton
In Matthew 24 Jesus’ followers ask Him THE question: “What sign will signal your return at the end of the world?” What are the six things that Jesus said have to happen before He returns? Are any still unfulfilled? And most importantly, how should we live in these last days?
Matthew 24
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Since Jesus made it abundantly clear that we are living in the end times - we should know how to live in a way that makes every day count! So how do we live “ready”? Jesus sent letters to churches in Asia Minor to make sure that they were ready for His return and making the most of every opportunity. Will you listen what Jesus says to His church?
Mark 13:32-37; Revelation 1:1,4-8, 3:14-22
Speaker: Aaron Patton
War. Poverty. Unrest. What in the world is going on, and how should we live today? The current conflict between Israel and Hamas has sparked several questions regarding the End Times and whether this is the end. If we are living in the End Times, how would we know & how should we prepare?
The current Israel crisis sparks many questions for followers of Jesus. We wonder if this is the end of the world. If so, how did this begin, and what is our response? Today, we will look at Genesis 16-21 and go back to the beginning of where the conflict started.
Genesis 16:1-3; 9-12, 17:17-19, 21:8-10
Speaker: Bob Kadlecik
Join us as we look forward to 2024 by looking back on all that God has done in 2023!
Speaker: Josh Jones
So much of the Christmas story seems unlikely, including God’s choice of messengers to tell people about it. Angels were an obvious choice, but shepherds and foreign wisemen? But the most unlikely of all was God’s messenger to earth–Jesus. That God would humble Himself into such a small and weak container, a baby boy, is the most unlikely plan of all.
Luke 2:8-20
Speaker: Aaron Patton
When something is promised, it’s easy to get excited and start watching for the fulfillment of the promise. It’s easy, that is, until time drags on and on, seemingly without any movement or change. Eventually, it’s easy to start thinking “It’s not going to happen”, or “We must have gotten it wrong”, or “They must have changed their mind.” Before you know it the lack of movement convinces us that the possibility of anything happening is highly unlikely. So what do we do when God’s timing seems suspect and leads us to believe that His promises are highly unlikely?
Luke 2:21-40
Speaker: Josh Edwards
A birth predicted 1000 years before it happened. A star guiding magi to the birthplace of a special child. A heavenly message proclaimed by angels to simple shepherds. A virgin giving birth…to a child…who was God. What do all these things have in common? They seem unlikely. But could it be that God uses the most unlikely circumstances to bring about the most wonderful outcomes? We think so. And we invite you to join us as we celebrate an “Unlikely” Christmas.
We cannot control how likely or unlikely our life events will be. We can only control our response to them. Mary’s circumstances were beyond unlikely; they were miraculously impossible. But Mary had an unlikely response to her confusing and frightening circumstances – she completely trusted God. She wanted what God wanted, even when she didn’t understand. In the most unlikely birth in human history, Mary had a very unlikely response to God – she trusted Him. Will you?
Luke 1:26-38
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Jesus warns us not to store up treasures on earth. It’s not just because wealth might be lost; it’s because wealth will always be lost. Either it leaves us while we live, or we leave it when we die. No exceptions. The more you have, the more you’ll leave behind. So the wise will store up treasures in heaven, living not for what is temporary (the dot), but for what is eternal (the line).
Matthew 6:19-21
Speaker: Aaron Patton
When confronted with a need, it is typical to assess your resources and determine what you can afford to give to meet the need. Is this the right approach? Or is there a better question to ask? Jesus challenges us to ask “What do I have?” rather than “What can I afford?” Then He uses what we give in a powerful way.
Matthew 14:13-21
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Do you do This? This opens doors and solves problems. This inspires others to do This, too—it’s the good kind of contagious. When they tell our life stories, we want them to put This at the top. We are hardwired for This. This is who we are, and This Is What We Do.
Giving may be an action, but generosity is a posture. When we are generous with our resources, we follow the example of our God, who is not only generous toward us, but multiplies the impact of our giving and the joy we experience as a result of our generosity. Generosity, beginning with the tithe, helps us to put God first.
2 Corinthians 9
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Many people are looking for more purpose in their lives and circumstances. As we wrap up our Starting Point series, we will see that our uniqueness finds its fullest and best expression when connected to God's divine purpose in the world. As followers of Jesus, we are a part of something so much bigger than ourselves--and it's called the Church.
Acts 9
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Faith has a starting point, and as we discussed in week one, our faith is tied to the resurrection. The Christian faith is founded on a person and an event that is supported by historical evidence, and the evidence demands a response.
Acts 17
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Most religions want to negotiate with God. The Bible tells us that God isn’t interested in negotiating, because He is more interested in giving to us than getting from us. In this week of Starting Point, we talk about how grace explains why we can’t bargain with God.
Ephesians 2
Speaker: Aaron Patton
“What can wash away my sin?” It is the age-old question everyone and every religion asks. We all have seasons of our lives and things in our lives we wish we could erase or forget. What do we do with them? In this week of Starting Point, we talk about the solution to our guilt and shame
Mark 1
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Rules, Rules, Rules! Why are there so many rules? Sometimes when you read the Bible it can very quickly feel like all it is is a list of do’s and don’ts. Some people even think that the 10 Commandments are the centerpiece of the Christian faith and that obedience is required to get in. But what if a relationship with God doesn’t depend on obedience? When it comes to your relationship with God, what is the role of rules?
Exodus 20
Speaker: Aaron Patton
We can all agree that our world is a mess! The world’s three largest faith traditions claim the same starting point - Abraham, and they all agree that God stepped into the mess of our world to do something about it. The question is - how do we get the help He provided?
Genesis 12
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Everyone makes mistake, right? But is it a mistake when you do it on purpose? What do you call a mistake that you can’t seem to stop doing even though you really want to? Our problem isn’t that we are mistakers. Our problem is that we are sinners. We must first recognize our sin for what it is. But we must also see how Jesus came not to condemn us in our sin but to restore us.
Matthew 5:20-22; 27-28
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Everything has a starting point: A relationship, a career, a life, a nation. What is the starting point of Christianity? What do you believe and why do you believe it? Join us as we ask questions and think through the foundations of not just Christianity, but your relationship with God.
Paul wrote a dozen books of the Bible and was beheaded for following Jesus and telling others about Him. What was the starting point of his incredible faith? What was most important to him and the other Christians who knew Jesus personally?
1 Corinthians 15:3-6
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Following Jesus means becoming more like Jesus. That is a high standard, but thankfully we do not have to get there all at once and we are not alone in the process. Everyone has a next step to take in becoming more like Jesus. We can be more of what God calls us to be each day if we will walk by the Spirit.
Galatians 5:16-26
Speaker: Aaron Patton
You may have noticed that at Bridgewater Church we value community. We live in a culture that is very individualistic, yet in Scripture, we are encouraged to be connected so that we can contend for one another, be united in love, and increase in our understanding of God. All of this is so that we may share our faith and continually be built up and strengthened in our faith. This can produce a heart of thankfulness, but it does not happen by simply showing up; it requires connection.
Colossians 2:1-7
Speaker: Aaron Patton
If you’ve been a part of Bridgewater for very long, you realize that we place a significant emphasis on reaching out to people far from God. Why? The actions of Jesus show us that He values people and has an urgency in having spiritual conversations. If you’ve been found by Jesus, it’s time to help find others.
John 4:1-42
Speaker: Aaron Patton
As a church, we want to be known for serving others. This is us; this is who we are. Jesus was an example for all of us to follow, and if we want to follow Him, we need to live as Jesus lived and live our lives in a way that looks like Jesus.
John 13:1-17
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Like people, no two churches are exactly alike. Though there are many churches known by the same name, there is only one of us. As a church, we exist to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ. But we have a unique personality and contribution to make in God’s work. At Bridgewater, we are motivated by our mission and driven by our core values. These core values are the why behind the what and the how. Join us in this series, as we focus on Bridgewater's Core Values. This is us.
We, as a church, value radical generosity. But why? Why choose to give in a world consumed with getting? We value generosity because God has been so generous to us. In giving us His Son Jesus, God has given us the ultimate gift and has set the standard for sacrificial giving. So it is both our joy and responsibility to follow His example. We give because He gave.
1 John 3:16-18
Speaker: Josh Edwards
Why do we meet on Sunday mornings? What is the point of church? It’s hard to be 100% onboard with something if you don’t know why you are supposed to do it.
Romans 5:6-11
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Following Jesus requires me to obey God, not just listen and talk. Next Sunday is an opportunity to put our faith into practice and BE the church!
Matthew 28:18-20
Speaker: Aaron Patton
What changes hearts? The only thing that radically changes my heart and the hearts of our enemies is love! Rules don’t change anyone’s hearts. Grace does! Love does!
Hosea 1:1-10; 3:1-3
Speaker: Aaron Patton
What should you do if you’re constantly being hurt, offended, or angered? Maybe the problem isn't an outward one but an inward one—a problem with ego. When you’re humble, you’re not constantly thinking, "How do I look?" Or "Am I a success?" Or "What do they think of me?". God delights in making marvelous things happen using the humble and yet we think far too much of ourselves. So in reality, the question is: what’s really been wounded? You? Or your ego?
Philippians 2:1-8
Speaker: Jeff Schrecengost
So many relationships struggle and end because of one simple thing: offense. He offended me. She hurt me. They offended me. All of these are statements that most of us are used to hearing and maybe even saying. What if there was a better way? What if we could approach struggles, conflicts and problems with a different outlook? The way of Jesus teaches us something foundational about conflict - it teaches that offenses will occur - but we don’t have to be offended. You see: offense is an event, offended is a choice. So, what choices can we make to live in the way of Jesus even in the midst of conflict?
Jesus says: Drop the offense with forgiveness, because if we change our approach to offense, maybe we’ll stop being offended!
Matthew 5:21-26
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Everyone has thoughts on singleness and marriage. The world, our families, our friends, and even churches have a lot to say about it. But what does God really have to say about it?
Genesis 1:18-25
Speaker: Aaron Patton
What if we aren’t just animals but something more – created in the image of God? It would mean that all human life is equally sacred no matter your color, sex, size, or how little of life is left.
Genesis 1:26-27
Speaker: Brett Bixby
History has not always reflected well on people of faith and those who identify as transgender. But followers of Jesus must both seek to understand the dynamics of transgenderism while responding in Christlike love to those who are wrestling with issues of identity. This message will help us understand how we arrived at this cultural moment, what God’s Word has to say about it, and how to wisely and lovingly respond to all people.
Genesis 1:26-28
Speaker: Josh Jones
Over the past 50 years - the conversation about sexuality and homosexuality has changed drastically in our culture. How do we navigate these conversations biblically and point to the hope of the gospel? How do we formulate convictions for ourselves that help us stand firm against the brokenness that exists inside every one of us? Broken Sexuality will walk through 4 truths designed to guide the way that we see our sexuality and interact with others.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
'In the beginning God' are some of the most important words to understand the world we live in. In the beginning God spoke creation into existence with design, intention, and purpose. This reality has powerful implications for some of the most important conversations of our day. We are not left to culture, opinion, or our own thoughts to determine the answers to these questions. God, through His Word, has made available for us the answers to questions about life, sexuality, gender, marriage, and more.
Whatever is most important in your life will ultimately serve as the grid in which you make your decisions through. In order to understand the world we live in, we must see our world through the right lens. God, the Creator of everything, is the ultimate source of life and truth. That reality must filter how we answer every ethical and moral question we encounter.
Genesis 1:1-3
Speaker: Aaron Patton
We love moms at Bridgewater and so does God. In fact, God has incredible plans and purposes for women! Join us as we discover how God is using the season you are in right now to bring about His good plan in and through you.
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24
Speaker: Aaron Patton
I quit fear by waiting on God instead of striving to do it all on my own.
Psalm 46:1-11
Speaker: Aaron Patton
I quit fear by worshipping God instead of worrying.
Matthew 14:27-33
Speaker: Aaron Patton
I quit fear and worry by trusting in God instead of myself.
Exodus 16:2-27
Speaker: Bob Kadlecik
He’s a terrible boss. Almost everything he says is a lie. He sucks the life out of you and anyone he’s around. He holds you back from so much joy and adventure. And yet so many continue to serve Him. Who is he? Fear. It’s time for you to turn in your resignation and quit fear.
Week 1: I quit fear by confronting lies and believing God's truth.
Matthew 6:23-24
Speaker: Aaron Patton
This weekend is a weekend of celebration. It’s a weekend of celebration because what we celebrate at Easter changed everything for humanity. It brings hope to those that are hopeless. It speaks new life to those who are desperate for a brighter future. In times of difficulties we cling to hope that our worst days won’t be all of our days, & Easter provides that hope!
1 Corinthians 15
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Sin has a way of messing up so many things in our life, especially our connection to God. Before accepting the free gift of salvation, it’s what keeps us from a relationship with God. After accepting the free gift of salvation, sin can cause us to feel distant from God because we often feel guilty about what we did and think God must be mad at us. So we hide from God or are distance ourselves from Him. But Jesus didn’t go to the cross so we could have a cold distant relationship with our Heavenly Father. Repentance and confession are essential pieces to walk in a close relationship with God.
Psalm 139:1-4; 23-24
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Have you ever heard a song that moved you? Whether it was the words or music itself, it just had a way of drawing you in so powerfully? Music is an incredible gift, and all throughout the Bible, God’s people have used music to declare how good God is. The songs we sing every Sunday aren’t just because we love music, but because God has given us worship through song as a means of growing closer in our relationship with Him.
2 Chronicles 20
Speaker: Josh Jones
Have you ever felt like your connection with God could be better? Does it feel like things get in the way of you knowing God? Do you ever wonder if there is something you could do to have a closer relationship with God? You’re not alone! And the good news is, the Bible offers us an answer to those questions. Join us as we dig in to God’s word and dive deeper into knowing our great God.
One of the ways Scripture gives us to get in tune with God's heart is to fast and pray as we seek Him. Fasting is the practice of laying aside food and sometimes other things to create space for more prayer in our life. Join us as we discover the joy of seeking God through prayer and fasting.
Matthew 4:1-4
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Conflict is an inescapable reality. No one is immune to it. It has a unique way of exposing the motives of our hearts. So we’re going to follow James’ lead and lean into the source of human conflict to see how it brings the quality of our faith to the surface so that we can pursue an authentic faith in God.
James 4:1-3
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Life can be confusing, frustrating, and difficult to navigate. Because of that, wisdom is a treasure so valuable we eagerly search for it in books, blogs, and people. But how do we know when we’ve found it? What does true wisdom look like? James shows us the differences between worldly wisdom and wisdom from God and why people of faith pursue the wisdom that is from God.
James 3:13-18
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Faith is essential to having a relationship with God. But is it possible to have a kind of faith that God doesn’t accept? The answer is yes! So we’ll discover qualities and characteristics of both real and counterfeit faith to determine which we have.
James 2:14-26
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Temptation is part of the human experience. We’re all tempted to do what we know is wrong. But how should we respond to temptation? And when does temptation become sin? What does our response to temptation reveal about our faith? We’ll look at the process of temptation from beginning to end to better understand how sin works and how to overcome it.
James 1:13-18
Speaker: Josh Jones
In a world of copies and counterfeits, it can be difficult to know that you have something authentic, something real. And when it comes to issues of faith, it can be even more confusing. But James offers us help as he shows us what real, authentic faith looks like in the context of everyday life.
Everybody experiences times of difficulty and suffering. But for followers of Jesus, these trials not only expose the condition of our faith in Jesus, but also serve to strengthen and develop it. We’ll see how our responses to suffering shed light on whether our faith is real or counterfeit.
James 1:1-8
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Let's take a look back at what God has done in 2022, and look ahead to what we hope He does in 2023!
Philippians 1:3-6
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Anything in life that is worth changing, is worth doing the work to keep that change. We can’t clean our house once and expect it to stay clean forever, in the same way we can’t expect one short season of trying to change make us different forever. Real, lasting change is a result of choosing to pursue and keep that change day in and day out.
Lamentations 3:19-25
Speaker: Aaron Patton
There are so many things our lives can be about. So many really good things can become the center of our priorities, even. In Christianity it can feel a little overwhelming when you consider all the “good things” we could and maybe feel like we should be doing. But what if it was really much simpler than that? What if the entirety of everything we ought to aim for in life could be boiled down into two things?
Matthew 28
Speaker: Aaron Patton
God sent Jesus to the cross to make change possible, and then He sent His Spirit to live in us to give us the power to actually change. But He wasn’t done yet! God also gave us His Word to lay out a pathway to leave behind the old and move our lives towards the new life offered in Christ.
Psalm 119
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Even if we were successful in keeping our resolution for the year, and we were successful in changing behaviors, the heart often remains the same. But what if I were to tell you that God not only has the desire for us to change, but gives us the power to change?
Galatians 5:16-25
Speaker: Aaron Patton
As you consider last year, are there things you would have wanted to be different? Are there things that were great that you want to keep doing? Are there things that maybe aren’t so great that you want to stop doing? The New Year provides a great opportunity to hit the reset button and make some changes—to take one step closer to the life we want. Are you ready?
We are going to be looking at 4 key factors in change. Where do we get the power to change, what change should we be aiming towards, what is the pathway to that change, and finally, how do we keep the change we worked so hard to get?
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Speaker: Matt Pousseur
Christmas is the biggest cultural celebration that we have and yet, unless several other things happened, we wouldn't even know about it or celebrate it today. What if the point wasn't Christmas—what if the point was something else entirely? Something that could give every single one of us hope for our future?
Matthew 1:18-21
Speaker: Aaron Patton
There are fears all around us in our society today. Political, economic, relational and family fears surround us. What do we do? When Jesus arrived on the scene 2000 years ago, the world was likely even worse than it is today, and yet a small group of people started to have hope. Why?
Luke 2:1-11
Speaker: Aaron Patton
When Jesus showed up on the scene it was without human fanfare. In fact, one could argue that His birth was never truly meant to be celebrated. Yet 2,000 years later we celebrate it globally. Why? Could it be that His birth was the beginning of something bigger than Christmas? Could it be that through His birth God was addressing our greatest hopes and fears?
The genealogy of Jesus is filled with some troublesome characters—many of whom we wouldn't expect to be a part of the family tree of the Son Of God. Even more surprising than that is the fact that women are mentioned in the genealogy as well—simply because that wasn't done in ancient times. Why are they there? Could it be that God wanted us to know that regardless of our past there is hope now that Jesus is on the scene?
Matthew 1:1-16
Speaker: Aaron Patton
The road to Hell is subtle and paved with good intentions. Discover from the life of Absalom three counter-cultural choices you can make that will help you avoid becoming the monster you hate.
2 Samuel 15
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by everything going on to the point that you felt incapable of moving forward? Maybe you needed to deal with a difficult situation but felt unqualified to handle it because of your own choices. King David goes from the pinnacle of greatness down a steep slope because he was unwilling to deal with what was necessary for him to deal with. Join us as we discover some essential things to keep us from going down that same road.
2 Samuel 13
Speaker: Aaron Patton
David had two virtues that changed everything. What were they and how can we grow them in our own lives to change our world today?
Scripture: 1 Samuel 23-24
Speaker: Aaron Patton
The more jealous King Saul became, the more he lost. How can we avoid the same loss and failure? How can we cultivate an anti-jealous heart?
Scripture: 1 Samuel 16-18
Speaker: Aaron Patton
What keeps you from the greatness God has called you to be? Join us as we look at the lives of three kings whose lives and choices provide a map to great success or devastating failure.
The difference between success and failure begins in the smallest of choices. How did Saul become a failure? Physically he had “it.” Spiritually he had “it” – he was literally chosen by God. But in the end he killed hundreds of innocents and took his own life.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Sometimes less is more... but sometimes more is more! What do we need to do more of with our money to unlock more significance and joy that God wants for us?
Speaker: Aaron Patton
What is the connection between money and happiness? Discover the paradox of when and how money and happiness collide.
Money can increase your joy, but too much of a “good thing” will make you tired and miserable. Embrace the counter-cultural happiness of the less God wants to give you.
Ephesians 4:6-8; 5:10-12
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Have you ever been watching a show or movie and it was all well and good and then suddenly it kind of takes a turn and you’re getting a little uncomfortable with it? All of a sudden, it’s not a movie you want to watch if your mom is in the room. Somewhere along the way, follower of Jesus or not, you might have asked the same question our friend asked: Should I watch this?
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Did you know that overdose is the leading cause of death for people under 50? More than heart disease, cancer, and homicide. Does God have an answer for those struggling to find freedom from addictions and substance abuse? Join us as we tackle a very relevant topic for our communities.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Anger is one of those things that is easy to spot in someone else, but can be harder to identify in our own lives. We can so easily blame-shift our anger to make it someone else’s fault: we did that thing or said those words or reacted that way. How do we break free from the vicious cycle of anger?
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Maybe you feel like you’re the only one? Or you worry, “If I ask, what will they think of me? When you doubt you can feel like a spiritual failure or have gone apostate and fear being judged. But we want you to know this is a safe place to ask hard questions. God isn’t scared of your doubts and neither are we.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
In this series, we are going to bring up the issues we all deal with that don’t often get dealt with.
Today’s question:
Asking for a friend, when does God give up on you? Like how bad is too bad for God? Is there some sin or something we could do that God would never want us?
Speaker: Aaron Patton
We have gone over 4 of our 5 values and the vision/mission for Bridgewater Church. Each week, as people have had the opportunity to respond to God’s word, next steps have been taken— and yet, when we take next steps we have to realize that at times our choices will be unpopular and we may even suffer to some extent. So, what do we do when things get difficult? How should we respond? The natural tendency is to be discouraged and complain. But what if God is actually up to something good!
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Life is better connected. Almost everything (eating, sports, work, or following Jesus) is more fun and more effective when done with someone else. Join us as we discover how we can connect with others in a way that helps us become more like Jesus.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
No matter where you are in your journey to become like Jesus, everyone has a next step. Sometimes that step is big, other times it’s small. But what many don’t realize is that often your next step isn’t just about you. What if your next step was to help someone else take their next step?
Speaker: Aaron Patton
What’s the big deal about baptism? Listen in to some common misconceptions about baptism and the reasons why so many people don’t follow Jesus in this important spiritual step.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Jesus has a vision to change the world one life at a time as His followers make more and better disciples of Him. But how do we do that? This series unpacks several Biblical principles (our core values) that result in more & better disciples. These values change lives that will change the world.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
If you want to spark a highly spirited debate among sports fanatics just ask, “Who was the greatest?” Though most of us have no chance of being the greatest at a sport, if you live these two principles, you can be the greatest person on earth.
Passage: Mark 10:32-45
Speaker: Aaron Patton
The third and last step toward a national spiritual awakening may be the most counter-cultural of all. Could it be that this old, outdated, traditional idea is the missing ingredient to a spiritual revival in your life and beyond?
Passage: Nehemiah 9:38-10:1
Speaker: Aaron Patton
We all know what prayer is; it’s asking God for help. But what if that’s not what most prayer is about? What if there is more to prayer than we have always thought? And what if those missing prayers are what is needed to not just change an individual life, but to change a nation.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
How does God turn an entire nation back to Him? Join us as we look at how Israel was transformed in Nehemiah’s day and what we can do to to start that spark in ourselves.
Spiritual change on a national scale begins with God’s Word. But that spark of change doesn’t come from just reading or understanding the Bible—that’s for spiritual babies. America will never change until Christians grow up and take this step beyond just believing God’s Words.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Career goals are great and working hard is really important. Making money to pay your bills is essential. But what if there was more happening at your job than just earning a paycheck and what if there was more to your paycheck than just earning money? What goals does the Bible lay out for your career and your paycheck?
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Anyone who has kids or cares for kids knows that kids have needs. Parents spend much of their time meeting their kid's needs or helping their kids learn how to meet their own needs. But when it all shakes out, what do our kids need most? What really should be our highest aim for our kids?
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Everyone who is married or one day hopes to be married comes to the relationship, the engagement, and the altar with hopes, dreams, desires, and expectations. How do we ensure we have the right expectations and goals in our marriage?
Speaker: Brett Bixby
What is the goal of dating? If someone were to ask you why you were in a romantic relationship with someone, what would you say? Would your reason be so that you aren't alone? Or would it be "because I'm bored"? Maybe you just want someone to pay attention to you. What if there were bigger goals to dating than just swiping right or swiping left? Join us as we discover what the Bible has to say about this pivotal season of life.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Family relationships, friendships, coworkers, acquaintances and romance...we are all in relationships. Sometimes things get messy and we react by going through 'relationship rituals’; just doing what we've always done without giving it much thought. Few things in our life are more important than the relationships we have. Sure, we make goals for things in our life that we feel are important, whether it be our career, our finances, or our living situation. What if we created relationship goals that were based not on what the world called successful, but on what God called successful? How do we know how to navigate these relationships so we don't just survive, but we thrive? Join us as we discover the relationship goals the Bible gives us for every area of our life.
What is your goal for singleness? Is it just a waiting room for marriage or is it something more – something even greater and more significant?
Speaker: Brett Bixby
No one has more power to destroy my life than I do, however, there is another enemy. The devil stands opposed to God and opposed to those who follow Him. The Bible talks openly about the devil and his plot to take people away from following God and giving Him praise. But the Bible also talks plainly about how God has given us a plan and a strategy to fight off the schemes of the enemy.
Speaker: Josh Edwards
Sin doesn’t usually get us to go from zero to a hundred—it gets us to go one degree at a time; one small moral compromise that doesn’t seem like a big deal. But when it comes to our moral life, there is no such thing as a small decision. We have a phenomenally powerful choice on our hands. One choice affects another, and the effects of those choices accumulate and magnify over time.
Speaker: Josh Jones
There is a war being waged on the next generation. Raising kids that grow up to love God and win the battles that they are fighting doesn’t happen by accident. Kids are humans who have been given free will, which means there is no perfect formula or guarantee on how our kids will turn out. However, we do think the Bible lays out a great battle plan. A strategy to give them the best fighting chance at winning their own battles.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Unchecked thoughts rarely stay just in your mind—they will almost always express themselves in words or actions. The words you speak, come from somewhere. They didn’t just originate on your lips—they came up out of your heart; they came up out of your inner person. If we believe lies about ourselves, about others, and about God, we are going to eventually start speaking those lies. There is great power in the words we say, how are you using them?
Speaker: Joel Garrison
The reality is we all face battles in this life. Various difficulties and trials come our way. You’re in one right now, whether you want to admit it or not. The Bible presents a number of different verses that help us to see that life is not a playground but a battlefield. But a battle that God has promised victory for those who follow Him. Join us as we take on the fight for our lives against darkness, against our selfishness, against our self-sabotaging tendencies, against our minds, against our mouths, against our sin, against our enemy, and for the next generation. Join the fight and get your life back.
Our minds are the battlefield where we probably take the most shots from the enemy and it is perhaps the most important territory to take back. Not every single problem in your life can be solved simply by mind over matter, but what happens in your mind really does matter.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
If it didn’t happen, nothing in the Bible is helpful or dependable. If it did happen, everything in the Bible is true and reliable. The resurrection is the hinge on which all of Christianity and perhaps all of human history turns.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Jesus said He’s coming back. What’s taking Him so long? What did He predict would happen before His return and what should we do now to be ready?
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Where did everything come from? Are people merely a more complicated version of monkeys, fish and bacteria? Let’s look at the Bible’s explanation of where life, the universe and everything came from.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Saggy pants, rat-tails, powdered wigs and men in tights are no longer in fashion. Beliefs come in and out of fashion as well. But is truth determined by popular vote? Join us as we look at some “outdated” beliefs of the Bible that are still true.
Is Hell real? How bad is it? Who goes there? Let’s dig into what Jesus says about the place many people only know as a cartoon or swear word.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
The world is watching us and deciding if Jesus is worth following. How we treat each other as Christians and how we act when it looks like we are losing perhaps says more than our words ever will.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Though we have been called to unity as a church, we are also instructed to draw lines and make judgments. The problem is we don’t often judge correctly and we don’t often judge the right people.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
The Christian life is lived by grace. And that grace does not leave us where it found us but grows us up into living like Christ. But the Bible might define spiritual maturity differently than we do.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Everything in the church and the Christian life must be centered on and filtered through the cross. Everything changes in light of the cross. Our unity as a church hinges on Christians living a cross-centered life.
Speaker: Josh Edwards
A divided church is an unhealthy church. A divided, unhealthy church is a dying church. Therefore the church must fight for unity.
Speaker: Aaron Patton
Series: The church is messy because it is full of messy people. Yet it still is God's chosen instrument to bring light to the world. How do we reconcile the mess church can be with the perfect of God. How do we love and serve the church in the way Christ served the church? 1 Corinthians shows us how God loves, chastens, disciplines, and restores His church even when it looks too far gone.
Sermon: If we are going to live in this world, we need to understand that God's grace is the only chance we have. It also is the only chance others have at making it. We must keep our own need for grace at the forefront of our minds when dealing with others.
Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:19
Speaker: Brett Bixby
How far would you go to save someone you love? To the ends of the earth? God loves the world and following Him means joining Him in His plan to bring that love to the ends of the earth.
Speaker: Joel Garrison
Sermon: Peace isn't dependent upon circumstances or luck. Jesus said that He wants to give us peace. How do we receive the peace He offers.
Scripture Passage: John 14:27-29
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: It's time to arm yourself with these three weapons to put your worries on life-support.
Scripture Passage: Judges 6:11-24
Speaker: Josh Edwards
Sermon: Some of the most godly people have struggled with depression. Discover from God's Word how we can fight depression physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Scripture Passage: 2 Corinthians 10:5
Speaker: Brett Bixby
What do we do when we face obstacles in life? In this message, Pastor Matt from Bridgewater Hallstead shares the three most critical steps we need to take to experience God's blessing.
Series: Find freedom from your stress, anxiety and depression.
Sermon: Stress is a part of all our lives and can push us to the breaking point. What are the causes of stress and what is the pathway out of stress and into peace?
Scripture Passage: Luke 10:38-42
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: While we're on the heels of a great Christmas season we want to take some time to reflect on the significance of Christmas and what it means for the rest of our year. Christmas reveals to us that the presence of God is most often felt with people of God. We can so clearly know Immanuel has come for us, when His people show us His love.
Scripture Passage: Romans 5:5; John 13:34-35; John 1:14
Speakers: Matt Pousseur and Josh Jones
Sermon: Thousands of years in the making, generations of hope, stories of expectation passed down through the ages have led to this moment. The moment when God makes good on His promise to send Immanuel to His people. A moment that changed everything. Discover how God wants to come make a home with you.
Scripture Passage: Matthew 1:20b-23
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: Have you ever been given something that should be a blessing, but really doesn't feel like one? What does it even mean to be blessed? Are blessings found in the accumulation of stuff, or the greatness of our achievements? Perhaps the greatest blessing of all isn't something, but someone.
Scripture Passage: Luke 1:46-55
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Series: Every year, people across the globe celebrate Christmas together. But beyond the lights, the gifts, and the traditions stands a story. Not just any story, but a story that has been told since the beginning of time. It's the story about a problem, that finally found its answer in what we celebrate at Christmas. Join us this Christmas season as we discover the answer to our greatest problems, Immanuel.
Sermon: In a time of life that should feel full of joy, celebration, and warm feeling, we know that is not always the case. What do you do when, you're not seeing what you hoped to see, you aren't where you hoped to be, or you long for something that isn't a reality. Where do you turn?
Scripture Passage: Isaiah 7:1-16
Speaker: Joel Garrison
How do you overcome crippling financial fear and anxiety? The antidote to fear isn't courage, it's trust.
Scripture Passage: Luke 12:22-24
Speaker: Brett Bixby
What if the solution to our financial problems wasn’t “just a little bit more”? Join us as we discover why more is never enough and talk about Jesus’ radical solutions to the financial anxiety and discontent we all face.
Jesus says more is never enough, because greed isn’t better than contentment. Jesus addresses the three lies that feed greed and discontentment: It’s all from me, it’s all for me and I have lots of time.
Speaker: Jeff Schrecengost
God dramatically delivered His people from Egypt. He demonstrated His great power to them, gave them a new identity, and provided for their needs. He led them out to freedom. But for what? What did He have in mind for this nation? God chose them not only to demonstrate His love for them, but also His love for all people. He didn’t just save them with no purpose. He gave them an incredible purpose, to represent Him to all people. They, like the people of God today, have not been saved simply to enjoy our salvation, but to offer that salvation to the people in our world. We have been commissioned.
Speaker: Josh Edwards
Though God redeemed His people and brought them out of Egypt, the journey of freedom wasn’t easy. They faced challenges and questioned God and their leaders along the way. Like us, they were longing for rest and desperate for provision. But God miraculously led and sustained them all along the way, whether they chose to recognize it or not. We, like them, can be led to believe that we don’t have the resources we need to do all that God requires of us. But even in our doubt, God still provides and resources us for our journey through life.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Stories of rescue are some of the most amazing to be told. The account of Israel’s Exodus from Egypt is no different. When God brought His people out of Egypt, He also decimated the false religious system of the people of Egypt by bringing plagues against their country that served to reveal their god had no power to save them. The pivotal moment was the final plague, when God commanded Israel to make sure they were covered by the blood of a lamb. This pictures the blood of the Lamb of God, Jesus, whose death redeemed us from slavery to sin.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
When God chooses to use someone to accomplish something significant, what kind of person does He choose? Does He look for the strong, able intelligent, or popular? Or does He look for something else? When God chose Moses, we learn not only the kind of person He may choose, but we also learn that His agenda for what He will accomplish through that person is as important as what He will accomplish in that person.
Speaker: Josh Jones
We all love a good story. What makes a story so compelling and so good is when we can see ourselves in someone else’s story. In this series, the call is to see ourselves in someone else’s story. From the book of Exodus, we’ll learn from the nation of Isreal’s mistakes and work to repeat their success. From captivity to commission, this is the human story.
All people have the same starting point - held captive by sin. We are born this way. While it seems natural to us, it is not the the way it has to be. And though sin takes from us and leads us to death, this is not the way it has to be. Freedom from sin can be found in fearing God.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: Loss, heartache, and disappointment have a way of affecting our faith. Maybe you thought God was going to heal someone, or change a situation and he didn't come through like you hoped. That disappointment can drive us to a place of unbelief and doubt. What does Jesus have to say about the hardest moments of our lives?
Scripture Passage: John 11:1-44
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: There is nothing more important than what you believe about God, salvation, and eternity; yet so often other things cloud out the most important decision you will ever make. Is the reason you can't believe because something else has caught the attention of your heart and has led you away from what matters most?
Scripture Passage: John 6:14-69
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: Are doubts and unanswered questions holding you back? Have you heard things about God and believe that they have left you with more questions than answers? Before you get answers to your questions, there may be something else you need. Join us this weekend as we unpack what may be getting in the way of you believing.
Scripture Passage: John 20:24-31
Speaker: Brett Bixby
There are many reasons people give for why they can’t believe in Jesus. Maybe it’s disappointment. Maybe they are skeptical of the whole story, or maybe they just find other things more important. What would change for you, if Jesus satisfied every reason why you can’t believe.
The first type of person who says they can’t believe, might not be who you think it is. Maybe it’s someone who says they already believe, but truly hasn’t believed in Jesus. They’ve got just enough religion to think they have the real thing, but lack saving faith.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: There are three kinds of people: Committed (stool), comfortable (recliner) and camal (bean-bag). Which one are you and why are two of those options so terribly wrong? If true, Christianty is of utmost importance. If untrue it is of no importance. The only thing Christianity cannot be is moderately important.
Scripture Passage: Joshua 14:6-14
Speaker: Josh Edwards
Sermon: The kitchen is where life happens with our family. It's where we serve others with others. Where and how does that happen in our church? Who and how does God want you to serve?
Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 12:1-7
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: The living room is where we connect as friends. How can we do that better at Bridgewater Church? And why is interacting in circles more powerful than sitting in rows?
Scripture Passage: Ephesians 3:16-18
Speaker: Josh Edwards
Sermon: The porch is where we welcome guests. How can we be a welcoming church? How do we make the church as irresistible as Jesus?
Scripture Passage: Acts 15:1-6, 19
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Series: Jesus gave His followers one job; make disciples. Take a tour with us through the "house" called Bridgewater Church to discover how this one command affects everything we do.
Sermon: After the resurrection, Jesus could literally do anything. He did one thing. And He tells us to do this one thing. What is it? And how do we accomplish it?
Scripture Passage: Matthew 28:18-20
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: For all the times that we do not know what to pray and for all the times that we feel caught in the rut of praying for the same thing in the same way, there is a solution. We can pray God's words back to Him.
Scripture Passage: Psalm 100
Speaker: David Wyman
Sermon: Sometimes there is nothing that we can do to change God's answer to our prayer but sometimes we can make a difference. The outcome of our prayer is not disconnected from our relationship with God. We can take steps towards praying more productively.
Scripture Passage: Matthew 6:9-15
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Series: Do you feel like when you pray, you never see any results? Sometimes prayer can feel like less than a conversation. It can feel repetitive and one sided, but it doesn't have to be that way. Our prayers are deeply connected to our relationship with God.
Sermon: What if we were to tell you that God answers all our prayers? Would you believe us? What would happen in your life if you believed God answered all your prayers?
Scripture Passage: Luke 18:1-8
Speaker: Brett Bixby
There are three characteristics of Nehemiah’s life that allowed him to build more than a wall, and become one of the greatest leaders of all time. What victories will God accomplish through you if you do the same?
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Most people believe great deeds are done by great people. But what if greatness isn’t measured by ability? What if God is looking for something else entirely?
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Before God can use you to change your reality, you must face it. Who and what stands in the way of what God wants to accomplish and who will stand with you?
Speaker: David Wyman
Series: What if you could change your world? Join us as we plunge into 2,500 year-old events that will challenge the very nature of your life today and send you on a mission to change your reality.
Sermon: Changing your reality starts with a picture - a vision - of what should be. These four questions will help you identify your vision of what God wants to do through you to change this world.
Scripture Passage: Nehemiah 1:1-4
Speaker: Josh Edwards
What does it take to build the muscle of faith that in season and out of season we are ready for whatever God calls us to do? How do we build our faith in such a way that we are ready when God asks us to take that big crazy step of faith?
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: Sometimes we encounter seasons of life that throw us down and beat us up. They leave us wondering if we really have what it takes. We can feel fearful and struggle with our faith. Is there a type of faith for that? What about someone who is imperfect but trying?
Scripture Passage: Matthew 14:22-30
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: How do you know it's really God? How can you be sure that what you feel led to is actually of God? How do you have faith when you also have doubt? How do you move forward when all you have is a maybe?
Scripture Passage: Genesis 12:1-4
Speaker: Josh Edwards
Sermon: Before you can have crazy faith you have to start somewhere. That somewhere is baby faith, and it's something that God said He can do great things with. What if you started your faith journey and took God at His Word?
Scripture Passage: Matthew 17:14-20
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Series: Throughout the Bible there are stories of people who lived their life by faith and accomplished incredible things for God. They just believed God, even without having all the facts they may have wanted upfront. We call them heroes of the faith. But what if they weren't just ancient people we read about, but are people we know. What if you lived your life in such a way that you were considered a person of great faith, maybe even crazy faith?
Sermon: The people of the Bible who lived with a crazy amount of faith built floating zoos, left their country to an unknown land, and slew giants. What do we need to know about faith to live all out for God? Discover how to have faith beyond "the status quo, or just getting by," and really start living out crazy faith.
Scripture Passage: Hebrews 11:1
Speaker: Jeff Schrecengost
Sermon: Rule #5: Forgiveness: What is it? What isn't it? When do I need to forgive and how do I do that?
Scripture Passage: Matthew 18:21-35
Speaker: Adam Morrill
Series: If you sneeze and I say "Bless you!" - it isn't going to change your life. Much more powerful than the blessing of a man or woman is the blessing of God. But how do we get God's blessing? God's promise to prosper us and give us His happiness?
Scripture Passage: Numbers 6:22-26
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Sermon: Rule #4: When you confront, confront with love and gentleness. Every conflict provides you with an opportunity to please God. Every conflict provides you with an opportunity to love others.
Scripture Passage: Galatians 6:1-2
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Rule #3: Humbly asking for forgiveness is the most powerful relational remedy in conflict. Remember: There is a big difference between an apology and asking for forgiveness.
Scripture Passage: Matthew 7:3-5
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Series: The happiest and greatest moments of your life happen through relationships. The worst and hardest moments of your life happen through... relationships! Join us as we discover the "rules" to build better, lasting relationships.
Sermon: Rule #1: Your goal in conflict cannot be to win the conflict or avoid the conflict. Your goal must be to please God. Remember: Sinful people tend to respond sinfully when sinned against.
Scripture Passage: Romans 12:18
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Although the world lives with the end in mind, with Jesus our story is not a story of ends. Regardless of what you have done in the past, Jesus wants to turn your grave into a garden. Jesus isn't finished with you. He's just getting started.
Scripture Passage: John 21
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: We have been marked by Jesus to leave a mark! One of the last acts of Jesus' earthly ministry was to serve his disciples and to challenge them to leave a mark of service.
Scripture Passage: John 13:1-5
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Series: What's the thing that defines you? When people think of you what is the thing they first associate with you? What if when someone thought of you they quickly thought of Jesus? What if you lived in such a way that it was obvious you have been marked by the power, forgiveness, love and mind of Christ? In this series, we will discover what it looks like to bear the marks of Jesus.
Sermon: If you are a follower of Jesus, you have been marked for a mission. Jesus has set you apart and called you but you may have to learn to take care of the donkeys before you see your name in lights.
Scripture Passage: Ephesians 4:1
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Too often we miss who our battle is truly against in this world. We miss our “Breakthrough” because we are fighting the wrong things and/or the wrong people. You and I have an enemy and the sole purpose of his existence is to chew God’s people up and spit them out. If we desire to proclaim victory in this world, if we want to thrive and not just survive, then we need to identify our true enemy and build a battle plan to stand against him.
Speaker: Adam Morrill
Sermon: We have a choice before us when we experience the brokenness of this world in our lives first-hand. We can choose to be just like the broken or we can choose to be who we are in Jesus. Suffering in this world leads us to one of two responses; sinning or serving; which will you choose?
Scripture Passage: 1 Peter 3:9-15
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Everything God does is by design and done for His purposes, but too often we live completely opposite of that truth; especially in the middle of suffering and pain. We come to believe that everything just happens around us and to us without thinking of a divine purpose. What if there was a plan. What if God has revealed His plan and we just missed it. Once we see with clarity that God does everything on purpose for a purpose, we are able to understand that we have been chosen right here, right now, for such a time as this. Each and everyone of us has a purpose and it is far greater that ourselves!
Scripture Passage: 1 Peter 2:4-10
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Finding our breakthrough starts with our minds. How we think determines how we live, simply because thinking always precedes doing. It is when we are alert and fully sober minded we are able to live differently- and when we live differently than the broken world around us we find our victory over it.
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
This world is not one we were meant to just survive; we are meant to thrive. As we read through scripture, we come to the same conclusion over and over again that we can find victory in a defeated world- but how we do that will surprise many of us. A breakthrough in life is a life of busting free from the brokenness of the world and taking a hold of a life that is truly life through God’s grace!
The realities of the broken world in many ways, for many of us, overshadow the greatness of God’s glory through the gift of life by His son. We forget who we are, we forget what He has already done and we get lost because we think we have lost. There is victory in Jesu and victory over this defeated world.
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: The key to professional breathing room is focus. We should learn to work towards what we're good at, which means improving on our strengths, and delegating our weaknesses.
Scripture Passage: Exodus 18: 13-24
Speaker: Josh Edwards
Sermon: All of us are living on a percentage of our income, but we have allowed our culture to squeeze our Breathing Room.
Scripture Passage: Malachi 3:7-12
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: There's something in all of us that wants to walk as close to the line as possible. By seeing moral breathing room, we set standards for ourselves that allow lesser consequences than when living right on the line.
Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 6:18
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Ever feel like you can’t catch your breath? Our culture encourages us to fill up our schedules and empty our bank accounts. Living on the line creates too much stress and tension but God has a better way. Our Heavenly Father wants to lead you to a life with breathing room.
In our attempt to get the most out of life, our schedules spin out of control. Our time is limited, and someone has to decide how we spend the time we have left. When we surrender our time to our Heavenly Father, He will lead us to breathing room.
Speaker: Brett Bixby
Jesus’ earthly reception was unexpected. How will you respond to Jesus?
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Jesus' plan was the most unexpected of all. People expected Jesus to save those like them; He came to save everyone. People expected a king to rule and make everything right-right now; He came to die.
Scripture Passage: Luke 2:25-35
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Assumptions often blind us to reality. When I assume something won’t happen or can’t happen, but then it does happen - it’s unexpected. Jesus not only comes in an unexpected way, he wants to do the unexpected in our lives.
If God can use these spiritual rejects, God can use you!
Speaker: Tim Morris
Sermon: We all want to be recognized, admired, sought after, and envied. We hunger for approval. We want to be known. But what do you do when there is no amount of "known" that will satisfy your appetite?
Scripture Passage: John 1
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Maybe you’re a “Three P” person - you have power, prestige and possessions. You have influence. You are envied. People take you seriously because of what you’ve accomplished, what you look like, or who you’re married too. There’s nothing wrong with being a “Three P” person. But when it comes to pride, “Three P” people face a unique challenge.
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
There’s something that rises up in each of us. It keeps us from apologizing, admitting we’re wrong, or showing weakness. It keeps us from forgiving. It causes us to lie about our pasts, to cheat instead of loose, and to feel happy when someone else fails. It stands in the way not only of our relationships with other people, but our relationship with God. What is this thing and how do we kill it?
There is a sin that is so common to the human experience, it is the gateway to all other sins. It promises to make us bigger, better and more important, but only make us smaller and meaner. It strips us of our capacity to connect with others. So, what is “it” and how do we kill it?
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Save Like it's God's Money.
Scripture Passage: Proverbs 6:6-8
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Give Like Jesus is in Need
Scripture Passage: Matthew 25:31-46
Speaker: Tim Morris
Series: Earn all you can and save all you can, so you can give all you can for as long as you can.
Sermon: Earn More. Work like Jesus is your boss.
Scripture Passage: Colossians 3:22-25
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
There is a life that is abundant, and to the max awesome. But it’s on the other side of a new set of patterns and a new self.
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: There is a life that is abundant, and to the max awesome. But it's on the other side of a new set of patterns and a new self.
Scripture Passage: Numbers 5:5-7
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Guilt and shame are a nasty cocktail that keeps many enslaved in a vicious cycle of defeat and destruction. But unconditional love has something to say about it.
Scripture Passage: Luke 15:11-28
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: There is a grief that leads to freedom and one that leads to death. How to find the path from brokenness through grief to freedom.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 7:9-10
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
It’s easy to push blame for the problems, but only one of us is responsible for where we find ourselves. But the good news is there is another one who has come to undo what we’ve done.
Speaker: Tim Morris
Sermon: Church isn't all about "me." If you are a follower of Jesus, you will have a concern for people.
Scripture Passage: Luke 10:25-37
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
If we are following Jesus, we will be concerned about people that are far from Jesus.
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: You can't do life alone. It is almost impossible to follow Jesus if you aren't tied to a local church and a smaller group of people that have permission to step into your life and have a hard conversation.
Scripture Passage: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Series: We see our Bridgewater core values hanging on the wall each week, but do we really know what they mean? Vision leaks, is a series all about reclaiming our purpose as a church and living out our core values.
Sermon: If you are walking with Jesus, He will be changing things in you and around you. That is why Jesus wants everyone to take the next step in their spiritual journey.
Scripture Passage: Philippians 3:10-14
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Christians have a different scorecard. Victory doesn't happen every couple years on one day in November, it happens every day we love unconditionally those we disagree with politically.
Scripture Passage: Philippians 2:1
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Our world is increasingly divided, but Jesus prayed that as followers of Him we would be united. How do I talk with someone who believes differently than me?
Speaker: Tim Morris
Politics and religion are the most divisive subjects in America today. How do we love like Jesus and yet courageously stand for truth? When it comes to politics and religion, what is the win?
Unity comes from a purpose or person greater than you. Are you willing to evaluate your politics through the filter of God’s Word or do you create a version of faith that supports your politics.
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Are you frustrated, depressed or just blah? There is a great adventure to which God is calling you. Follow this path to the encouragement and recharge that we all need.
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: As we've become more social media centric, we statistically have less empathy for others. Social media isn't the problem, it's just become a crutch to the natural inclination of our hearts. So how do we develop empathy and better care for others the way God intended us to?
Scripture Passage: Mark 1:40-41 NAS, Matthew 14:14 NIV
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Do the constant app notifications leave you feeling scattered and weary? There is a special rest for the people of God. Find out the benefits of a technology break in week 3 of struggles.
Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 6:12
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
How has social media affected you? If you say it hasn’t, there is a good chance you are wrong. One of the areas of impact is the “Authentic you”. Being “Authentic you” is a rarity on social media and the pressure to be someone you are not is overwhelming. Instead of presenting the authentic you, we post the me we want to be.
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Series: As you scroll through your day, does it feel like everyone else has it all together? Someone always has the best job, cutest kid, or happiest relationship. We're pressured to measure up to other people's social media status updates and left with more #struggles. This four-week series studies what it's like to live a Christ-focused life in a selfie-centered world.
Sermon: We all want to know the secrets to life, the secret to getting fit, rich, liked, or the secret to falling in love. But what about the secret of contentment, the secret of knowing how to have a heart that is fully satisfied? It could change your life!
Scripture Passage: Philippians 4:11-13
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: It is the most destructive evil known to humanity, and it lurks within every human heart. Discover how to spot and overcome the sin that corrupted the mightiest of angels.
Scripture Passage: Obadiah 1:11-14
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Sadness says life is terrible, but despair says life is terrible...and it will never get better. How do I deal with despair - or help someone I love out of it?
Scripture Passage: Habakkuk 1:2,4
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: What do you do when you seem to stand alone for God? Instead of mediocrity, Amos chooses to be strangely courageous.
Scripture Passage: Amos 6:1
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Series: How do you respond to tragedy, loneliness, despair and arrogance? Join us as we explore truth from 4 unfamiliar books of the Bible that will help you thrive when life tries to take you under.
Sermon: What do you do when your world turns upside down? Joel's strange response shows us how to thrive even in disaster.
Scripture Passage: Joel 1:2-3
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Even if the Bible is the Word of God how can a book that is so old have any relevancy in my life? How does ancient text from a culture that is so far gone impact my life? These are excellent questions and now here are the answers!
Scripture Passage: 2 Timothy 3:14-17
Speaker: Tim Morris
Series: Over the years the Bible has been affectionately known as "The Good Book". People believed it to be the Word of God. Over the recent decades this idea has eroded away. Each year fewer and fewer people read it, believe it to be true or have any relevancy for life. Now, more than ever, is the time to stop and ask a simple question, "Is the Good Book God's Book and how does it relate to me?
Sermon: In life we are faced with so many things that are not reliable; work, family, friends, etc. At some point almost everyone and everything has let us down. How can we look at the Bible and think that it is anything different? Is it really the Word of God? Can I count on it? Where will it lead me?
Scripture Passage 2 Peter 1:12-13, 19-21
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Terrorism. Shootings. Hatred. Intolerance. The world is not getting better. What on earth is God doing? And what part does God want me to play?
Scripture Passage: Genesis 1:28
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: You have a million things on the go, and because you don't want to be selfish, chances are you put everything and everyone ahead of yourself. That's potentially a fatal mistake. Maybe the key to being a better follower of Jesus, a better spouse, a better parent and a better human is actually putting yourself first when it comes to personal growth.
Scripture Passage: Mark 6:30-32
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Whatever your sense of morality is, the frightening truth is that we all fail to live up to it. Why and how do you keep coming up short? Surprisingly, compromise never starts with the big stuff. It's way more subtle than that.
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
In this series we want to talk about how to work on what matters most in your life. What we will discover is that your character, not your competence, determines your capacity.
As much as no one likes to talk about it, one day we're all not going to be here anymore. So here's the socially awkward question: what will people be saying about you at your funeral? We will see that it might not be that hard to predict.
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Who doesn't want peace? If peace depends on my circumstances, it will always be elusive and out of my control. But what if there is another way to have lasting peace?
Scripture Passage: Isaiah 9:6
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Walking, running, hiking, swimming, driving, and living life. What do they all have in common? They're all more difficult to do while carrying a heavy load. While the Bible is clear that we are to throw off sin, it also instructs us to throw off "weights and hinderances." This sermon is designed to help us identify areas of our lives that may not be sin, but are slowing us down and hindering our progress in becoming more like Jesus.
Scripture Passage: Hebrews 12:1-3
Speaker: Tim Morris
Sermon: "Let your conscience be your guide" is an often-repeated piece of advice. It even found its way into a Disney movie! Is it good advice? Should I follow my conscience? Is it reliable? What exactly is the conscience anyway? This sermon helps us understand the conscience and how God has designed it to help us navigate the everyday decisions of life. If we can learn to use it the way God intended, we will experience fewer regrets!
Scripture Passage: Romans 14:1-19
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Series: Life is complicated. The amount of decisions you have to make each day can seem endless. And while the Bible might help us navigate "spiritual" issues, where do we turn to find guidance in the "practical" areas of our lives? Can the Bible help us there? If the Bible doesn't mention my specific circumstances, does that mean it's silent on the subject? What if we could learn how to understand and handle God's Word in a way that helps to guide us through every decision we encounter - whether spiritual or practical? This series explores three biblical principles that can help us make better decisions and experience fewer regrets.
Sermon: Who did you most want to be like when you were younger? Who would you have said was your role model? the Bible tells us that we should be imitators of God - looking to him as our ultimate "role model." This sermon helps us understand how striving to emulate Jesus can actually help us make better decisions by encouraging us to ask the question, "Will it be what Jesus would do?"
Scripture Passage: 1 John 2:1-6
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: There is a connection between money and peace. The problem is we think that connection is through the word more. It's not. It's through the word manage.
Scripture Passage: 1 Timothy 6:5b-10
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Series: There is a connection between money and happiness, but it's not through the word "more." Find out the way God designed money to bring reward and joy instead of misery and grief.
Sermon: His wealth cost him both his happiness and the greatest invitation and opportunity of his life. What can we learn from this rich ruler?
Scripture Passage: Luke 18:18-30
Speaker: Ethan Morrison
Sermon: Anxiety will poison and take away your peace, relationships, and joy. God offers us two antidotes that will change your life.
Scripture Passages: Philippians 4:4-7
Speaker: Tim Morrison